Is furnace installation on your autumn to-do list? Upgrading your furnace or HVAC system is a great way to save on monthly utility bills, conserve energy and enjoy a more comfortable home. Utah winters can be brutal, and having a well-functioning, state-of-the-art furnace can make those chilly months much better. You wouldn’t dream of installing a furnace yourself (it’s dangerous!), but you can help make the process easier by preparing the space ahead of time.
Many HVAC professionals charge by the hour, and their time costs the same whether they’re setting up your furnace or doing cleanup work you could easily have done yourself before they arrived. Your most important job is making the space as clear and well-lit as possible. This is prime time to deep-clean an area that probably won’t get this kind of pampering again for a long time. If you’ve been wanting to paint or otherwise upgrade this area, do so well before installation day. Nobody, including your HVAC tech, wants to breathe paint fumes while they work.
While technicians are able to work under virtually any conditions, it’s best to provide the safest environment possible. The more comfortable they are, the more efficient their work will be.
Your Homework
Many homeowners choose to swap out entire HVAC systems instead of just the furnace. If you’re also installing a new air conditioner in preparation for next summer, make sure the area where the compressor is going to go is free of shrubs and plants. These can block condensers and cause trouble. Also, find out if new thermostats are going to be installed. Thermostats come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll likely want to touch up the paint in this area beforehand. Otherwise, all you’ll be able to notice is spotty paint post-installation.
Before any work begins, make sure you have a copy of the HVAC tech’s certification and workers’ comp insurance. Their company should supply this to you in advance if you ask — you never want uninsured workers on your property. If they get hurt, and there’s no workers’ comp, the liability rests on you. Clearing out the space can help prevent accidents, but you can never know when Murphy’s Law will come into play.
The Big Day
Even though an HVAC tech has completed furnace installations many times before, it still takes time. Depending on how big the job is, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. However, homeowners should expect a technician who’s professional and polite — and treats your property with respect. A bid and an estimate of how long the project will take before it begins allows you to plan accordingly.
For all your furnace installation, repair and maintenance needs, contact Sandy Heating & Air Conditioning, your local professional team.